The Federal Government of Nigeria has launched a new foreign policy document to leverage its international relationships with other countries.
During the launch of the “4D foreign policy,” witnessed by the diplomatic community, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, explained that the new document introduces a dynamic and innovative concept anchored on Democracy, Development, Demography, and Diaspora.
He further elaborates that Nigeria’s and Africa’s development increasingly depends on a new vision well-articulated in the President’s foreign policy concept.
“Democracy, as the universally accepted form of governance that guarantees freedom, human rights, and the rule of law, has come to stay. Nigeria is committed to strengthening democracy in Africa and the world at large.”
“Despite its challenges, democracy must be upheld by the people as the best form of government to champion the will of the people.
“Mr President is very clear about the need to entrench further and consolidate democratic gains made since the return to civil rule in 1999. We will continue to encourage this both in Africa and worldwide,” he said.
Regarding the second “D,” Tuggar emphasized the need to remove major impediments to development in Nigeria and the African continent, highlighting that the current cycle of dependency does not favour socio-economic growth in Africa.
Tuggar stated that the country plans to leverage the Africa Continental Free Trade Area to facilitate the exchange of goods and services, fast-tracking trade and investment through economic cooperation.
Additionally, he mentioned the administration’s intention to use the country’s demographic advantage to harness its human capital resources for development.
“We are pleased to say that the youth population of this country is excelling in fintech, music, arts, sports, and more. Our foreign policy and diplomatic engagement will showcase the vibrant young talent and skills that our young population possesses for national development,” he said.
Tuggar also highlighted the significant role played by the Nigerian diaspora community in the country’s development, emphasizing that their remittances have become a substantial contributor to Nigeria’s economic growth.
He maintained that President acknowledges this and believes that a well-structured diaspora community will continue to be a catalyst for Nigeria’s image and a veritable source of direct investment.
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